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GBTA Chicago 2027/2028 Leadership Elections

GBTA Chicago is preparing for our next leadership term, and nominations are now open for the 2027/2028 Executive Board, Allied Council, and Direct Council.

Chapter leadership is an opportunity to have a voice in the future of GBTA Chicago, help shape our educational programming and member experience, build deeper relationships throughout the business travel community, and contribute to the continued success of the Chapter.

This November, GBTA Chicago members will elect:

• 5 Executive Board members
• 4 Allied Council members
• 2 Direct Council members

All elected positions serve a two-year term. Nominations and self-nominations are open through October 16, 2026, with elections to follow in November.

Executive Board

The Executive Board provides overall leadership and governance for GBTA Chicago. Board members work together to establish Chapter priorities, oversee programming and operations, support committees and councils, and ensure the Chapter continues to serve the needs of its members.

President

First Vice President

Second Vice President

Secretary

Treasurer

Allied Council

The Allied Council serves as an advisory group to the Board of Directors, providing the supplier perspective on Chapter initiatives, programming, and educational opportunities. The Council consists of four Allied Members representing Airline, Hotel, Ground Transportation, and Travel Management Company sectors. Members also help support speaker coordination and meeting logistics.

Direct Council

The Direct Council represents the buyer perspective within GBTA Chicago and serves as an advisory group to the Board of Directors. Council members provide input on educational programming and Chapter initiatives, support Direct Member recruitment and retention, and help plan and facilitate buyer-focused roundtables and networking opportunities at Chapter meetings.

Why Serve in GBTA Chicago Leadership?

Chapter leadership is about more than attending Board meetings. It gives members the opportunity to become more involved in the organization and have a meaningful role in determining where GBTA Chicago goes next.

Elected leaders have the opportunity to:

• Help shape the direction, programming, and member experience of GBTA Chicago
• Build stronger relationships throughout Chicago's business travel community
• Work more closely with industry leaders, speakers, sponsors, and fellow members
• Increase their professional visibility through recognition on the GBTA Chicago website and social channels
• Contribute their experience and perspective to the continued growth of the Chapter

All elected leaders receive complimentary GBTA Chicago membership — a $175 value.

Executive Board members also receive complimentary Chapter meetings — a $300 value (excluding special events).

Who Should Consider Running?

You don't need to have served on the Executive Board before to get involved in Chapter leadership. We're looking for members who care about GBTA Chicago, want to contribute their ideas and experience, and are willing to take an active role in supporting the Chapter.

If a position interests you, self-nominations are encouraged. Members are also encouraged to nominate colleagues they believe would bring valuable perspective, energy, and leadership to the Chapter.

Being nominated does not automatically place someone on the ballot. After nominations close, individuals who meet the qualifications for the position for which they were nominated will be contacted regarding their nomination and next steps in the election process.

Ready to Get Involved?

Nominations are open through October 16, 2026.

Members may nominate themselves or another eligible GBTA Chicago member for an Executive Board, Allied Council, or Direct Council position.

Submit a Nomination

You must be logged in as a member to view the nomination form

Additional eligibility requirements and responsibilities for elected officials are outlined in Article IV of the GBTA Chicago Bylaws.